6 Answers
6

This isn't really a "graphic design" answer, but you may also want to see if you can change the text. In your examples, I don't think the art of the "install" button is particularly more button-like than your Outlook button. However, the text on it is a well-known verb so it is associated with performing an action. In the same vein, "Launch Outlook" may attract more clicks than simply "Outlook".

From a graphics standpoint, (and further to jhocking & luckycypher's comments), some other things you could try:

Make the edges glow on hover

change background/border color schemes on hover

add a subtle shadow (with or without beveling the surface) so the button appears raised from the page

add a small icon next to the text to indicate what action is to be performed (if I 'Outlook', what am I doing?)

place your button in a location where other buttons are typically placed on your site

make the button theme match other navigation links/buttons on the site.

Spot on. Ask yourself: what is the call to action of this button? Buttons usually do something and having some action on them makes the user identify it as a clickable one. See e.g. buttons/links on this page: edit, close, flag, add comment, post your answer (intentionally skipped link as it may be confusing at times) — all clearly have some action to run.
–
koiyuJun 19 '11 at 9:44

1

To add: even might–be–confusing link is clearly seen as a button since it looks the same as the obvious buttons next to it. Users usually seek for patterns. For example, if you had an install button and an outlook button and style both the same way, users probably interpret them both as buttons. (OK, a lot of repetition to your answer, but it does just prove you're on the right tracks :-D)
–
koiyuJun 19 '11 at 9:48

The key here is affordance - visual clues for the user to be able to determine the behaviour and intended use of something from a distance - before interacting with it - like a flat plate on a door says push and a handle says pull.

The main cues are beveled edges and gradient fills for a 3D feel and if appropriate with distinct drop-shadowed edges indicating a real raised and rounded button that makes you just feel you want to push it, combined with a clear call to action such as an appropriate label and/or well chosen icon. Note that rounded corners are more friendly and square corners seem harsh to the eye.

See also my tutorial on creating simple metal and glossy/glass effect buttons using Inkscape: http://bit.ly/iV6hHD

you should use two kind of image one is on active and one is normal state normal state will look bit embossed

attaching a SS and see how they clarifying different stats of a button,

and whenever user get on your button change cursor to hand it will feel like link,if possible you can write in small click here to instal..or you can point this button with the help of any arrow or something like that...

I think the color and border style of your button is not the main issue of your button. It might be that it is too big! It looks more like a word/title in a frame than a button. Try to just make it a bit smaller so the text inside it fills out (at least for the height).

As others have said, it will also help to have it pop out somehow on mouseover.